Building a Brighter Future Together:
2024 Overseas Compatriot Student Counseling & Guidance Seminar
CrossBond was honored to collaborate with the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) to co-host the 2024 Overseas Compatriot Student Counseling & Guidance Seminar, an impactful event that brought together 138 counselors representing 109 schools across Taiwan. This seminar served as a platform for counselors to engage in meaningful discussions, share valuable insights, and exchange strategies to better support overseas compatriot students who come to Taiwan for higher education. The seminar utilized the interactive "World Café" model, a collaborative approach designed to foster open, dynamic conversations. By facilitating multiple rounds of discussions on various topics, participants were able to delve deep into critical issues faced by overseas students, while also developing actionable solutions.
Fostering Student Resilience and Support Systems
The main topics of discussion during the seminar revolved around three core areas: Career Guidance, Life Support, and Emergency Assistance. Counselors shared their experiences and strategies for helping overseas students adapt to the unique challenges they face, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and psychological stress. These challenges can sometimes make the transition to studying abroad more difficult, and it is important for both schools and counselors to recognize the critical role of a strong support network in overcoming these obstacles.
A central theme that emerged from the discussions was the need to strengthen students' resilience. Counselors emphasized that by improving students' communication skills and fostering peer connections, they can better navigate the difficulties of living and studying in Taiwan. A supportive network, both within the academic environment and among peers, was identified as a vital element in ensuring students’ emotional well-being. By encouraging collaborative activities, students can build connections, reduce feelings of isolation, and enhance their overall experience.
Aligning with OCAC’s Vision: Retaining Overseas Students
